Your Sussex Wedding - Feb/Mar 2019 (Issue 77)

CROCKSTEAD FARM HOTEL 01825 841 022 | crockstead-sussex.co.uk Set in more than 200 acres of private parkland in the heart of the Sussex countryside, Crockstead’s beams, stone floor and brick walls create a fabulous rustic barn feel. But the addition of fairylights and chandeliers elevate this to a new level, giving the space a magical wedding day feel. Its position, overlooking the pond, lawn and courtyard, means guests can sip their drinks and savour some delicious canapés in a gorgeous al fresco setting before settling down to eat. The lovely sun-soaked courtyard can also be home to a bouncy castle, hook-a-duck, live musicians or even the wedding breakfast. The wildlife here is always a hit with guests. With tame, free-roaming peacocks, ducks and chickens adding to the atmosphere – they also occasionally like to get involved with the outdoor celebrations! The Old Barn, bedecked in fairylights, is a romantic, intimate setting for smaller ceremonies, while the outside lawn, home to the wrought-iron gazebo and willow tree, can accommodate a much larger guest list. The Millroom, an original equestrian mill across from the beautiful courtyard, sits between the two in terms of ceremony capacity. It is also the location for receptions, where there is the option to add a marquee. Free tasting, complimentary bridal suite for the night of the wedding and a wedding coordinator are all available. THE GUEST LIST… Ceremony: 120 inside, 200 outside (weather dependant) | Wedding breakfast: 110 or 500 with marquee | Reception: 200 or 500 with marquee EAST SUSSEX NATIONAL 01828 880 088 | eastsussexnational.co.uk Set in 1,100 acres of private estate, the East Sussex National resort offers 104 beautifully decorated en suite bedrooms with excellent facilities and incredible views across the South Downs. The open reception and extensive lounge both lead out on to private gardens overlooking the golf resort and estate. Classically decorated, from the marble floor to the sumptuous furniture, the interior feels like the height of luxury. All of the gardens are exceptionally cared for and boast and abundance of flowers all year round. There’s a wealth of spaces available for the “I dos” throughout the resort. If you would prefer to exchange your vows outdoors, then the pavilion garden bird cage could be the location for you. Inside, the Club House Ballroom overlooks the downs and golf course. The National Suite, Lynx Roundall, Pavilion and Lynx Suites are all available as ceremony spaces. The National Suite, with its integrated stage and coloured lighting system, is great for the evening’s celebrations, but you can also choose again from the Lynx Roundall or Clubhouse Ballroom. Plus, the ample views, fountain water feature and Guy, the full-sized bronze gorilla statue, all make terrific photographic backdrops. THE GUEST LIST… Ceremony: 200 | Wedding breakfast: 240 | Reception: 440 23 REGIONAL VENUES